12 Years a Slave Movie Review

12 Years a Slave  

Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti, Lupita Nyong'o, Sarah Paulson, Brad Pitt, Alfre Woodard

Directed by: Steve McQueen

Rated: R

Run Time: 134 mns

Genre: Drama/ Biography/ History

Opens November 1st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week is a film that has racked up several awards at some of the recent film festivals such as the Toronto Film Festival, Hollywood Film Festival, Hamptons International Film Festival and even the BAFTA/LA Britannia Awards. Is this just a warm up to the Oscars or will this film have too much competition in the upcoming awards season?

The year was 1841. Based on a true story of Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor) a free black man living in New York; a man who was an accomplished violin player and loving family man and by all accounts during that time was a free man. When his wife and children were out of town for a few weeks, Solomon thought he would take a gig traveling with some fellow performers down to Washington DC and be back before his family would return. It would be a surprise to have some extra income, or so he thought. While in D.C., Soloman was given too much alcohol, kidnapped and since he couldn’t produce any papers proving he was a free man, he was sold to a plantation owner Ford, who was a kind gentleman and appreciated Solomon for his many known talents. This did not sit well with foreman Tibeats (Paul Dano) and tried to punish Solomon every chance he had.

One day Solomon had enough of Tibeats abuse and attacked him, which put Ford in a precarious position. To save his life, Ford sold him to the only man who would take him, a stern plantation owner, Edwin Epps (Michael Fassbender). There Solomon would face his greatest challenges being in captivity as Epps is of questionable temperament and character. Will Solomon be able to survive and become free or die trying?

In this film, the casting choices are not what you may think but end up surprising in the way that the characters are not as they appear. Benedict Cumberbatch, who in his recent films has been apt to play the villain role, but in this film is one of the more likable, sympathetic characters. Michael Fassbender’s portrayal of the conflicted, yet barbaric plantation owner, is disgusting human behavior, but it’s all in the context of the story and time period. It’s a difficult film to watch; as the beatings, hangings and other forms of violence look authentic. It was interesting to see the stature of Chiwetel Ejiofor’s character go from this regal, classy demeanor broken down to a shell of a man through his posture and mannerisms through the duration of the film.

The upcoming awards season will be an interesting one to watch as this film may be up against other films that have racism as the core theme, such as “Fruitville Station” and “The Butler”. Out of the three films, this one packs the strongest performances by the cast as a whole as the pain and struggle of the characters radiates off the screen.  Be sure to keep this one on your awards watch list for the upcoming awards season. “12 Years a Slave” opens on Friday November 1, 2013.

Last Vegas Movie Review

Last Vegas 

Starring: Michael Douglas, Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Kline , Mary Steenburgen, Jerry Ferrara, Romany Malco, Joanna Gleason, Michael Ealy, Bre Blair

Directed by: Jon Turteltaub

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 105 mins

Genre: Comedy

Opens November 1st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Another film opening this week is a comedy for the older generation but hopefully will be able to attract the younger crowd. Can the combination of four amazing actors be the right formula for box office success?

Billy(Michael Douglas), Paddy (Robert De Niro), Archie (Morgan Freeman) and Sam (Kevin Kline) have been best friends since childhood. They have been through thick and thin, even dubbing themselves the “Flatbush Four” and no one messes with the four. As kids, Billy and Paddy were in love with the same girl, Sophie. Paddy eventually won the girl and Billy remained a bachelor until now.

Realizing his own mortality, Billy proposed to his much younger girlfriend Lisa (Bre Blair) during a friends funeral. This event  has been 58 years in the making, so Sam and Archie were not about to let Billy get hitched without having a bachelor party of his own, especially when he’s getting married in Las Vegas?!

Getting Paddy to agree to attend Billy’s bachelor party will be a much more difficult task for Archie and Sam to achieve. Paddy has been angry with Billy fr the past year for not showing up to his late wife’s funeral. Over the past year, Billy has been the angry old man that sits at home in his robe, pining away for his deceased wife. Archie and Sam pretty much drag him to Vegas under false pretenses.

When Billy and Paddy come face to face, the tension is thick but will a mishap at the hotel be the saving grace of the weekend? A beautiful lounge singer named Diana (Mary Steenburgen) may be the one to bring the two men back together, but will the group be able to behave themselves in one last weekend in Sin City?

It’s always fun to see dramatic actors take a turn in a comedic role, and with these four legendary actors, this film is no exception. Kline (A Fish Called Wanda, In & Out) and De Niro (Meet The Parents) have done comedic roles with pizazz, but to see Douglas and Freeman in such relaxed, light-hearted roles is such a delight to partake.  For those that have traveled to Vegas, you may recognize the familiar sights such as the street flyer distributors, the drunken college students, bachelor and bachelorette parties, the extravagant pool parties and club goers. What this film does well is mixing the older generation’s memory of Vegas and incorporating the younger crowd, mixing them so that both generations will be entertained. The best ways to compare this to as if “The Hangover” meets “Space Cowboys” and “Old Dogs”. Be sure to catch “Last Vegas” when it opens in theaters starting Friday November 1, 2013.

Movie Review for Ender's Game

Ender’s Game 

Starring: Asa Butterfield, Ben Kingsley, Harrison Ford, Hailee Steinfeld, Abigail Breslin, Viola Davis, Nonso Anozie, Stevie Ray Dillmore, Andrea Powell, Moises Arias, Conor Carroll, Aramis Knight, Brendan Meyer, Jimmy "Jax" Pinchak, Suraj Parthasarathy, Khylin Rhambo

Directed by: Gavin Hood

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 114 mins

Genre:Action/ Sci-Fi/ Adventure

Opens November 1st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Another film opening this week is also based on a book written back in the 1980’s that stems from a short story written by Orson Scott Card. Movies that are based on books usually are not as great as the book, but now with the technological advances in special effects, how does the story fare?

Earth has changed a lot in the future. Aliens invaded and now fast forwarding 70 years later, all the children are prescreened into military training at a very early age. What were you doing when you were thirteen? Ender Wiggins (Asa Butterfield) is a unique boy; he shows all the signs of being the one that can save Earth from the next alien invasion. How did anyone figure this out? Colonel Graff (Harrison Ford) was the first to spot him and has been keeping tabs on him ever since.

Ender climbs the ranks quickly, partly from his off- the charts strategic intelligence, stealth physical capabilities and compassion for his enemy. Major Gwen Anderson (Viola Davis) has been keeping tabs on Ender’s temperament and state of mind using a game on his tablet that is controlled by cognitive functions. Even though Ender is a brilliant strategist, Col. Graff constantly looks past the fact that Ender is still a child, easily influence by approval of his superiors.

When Ender’s promotion is on the line before the next alien invasion is set to attack, he starts to fall apart. Will Ender be able to pull himself together to get his promotion or will the whole program be too much for one boy to handle?

Embedded within this special effects driven visual feast is a contemplative message about warfare, technology and the effect of both on our children. The film is a type of “top Gun” meets “Space Camp” for kids but with way better visual effects. The story in entertaining, much of it feeling like the viewer is in a videogame, but the last third of the film has a deeper message that is conveyed.  The cast assembled is fantastic as the younger actors can hold their own against veteran actors such as Ford, Kingsley and Davis. If you’re a fan of the book, just go along for the ride of the film as it’s a visual experience like no other. Check out “Ender’s Game” when it opens in theaters starting Friday November 1, 2013.

Blue is the Warmest Color Movie Review

Blue is the Warmest Color 

Starring: Adèle Exarchopoulos, Léa Seydoux, Jeremie Laheurte, Catherine Salée, Aurélien Recoing, Sandor Funtek

Directed by: Abdellatif Kechiche

Rated: NC-17

Run Time: 179 mins

Genre: Drama/ Romance

Opens November 1st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  You may have heard about this film being talked about from different circles, mostly from the Cannes Film Festival.  The lead actresses, Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux both took home the Palme D’Or, for the first time the prize was also officially awarded to two of the actors. With all the buzz and rare festival accolades, how does the film stack up for American audiences?

Chronicling the early teen and development into adulthood, we first meet Adèle  (Adèle Exarchopoulos) as an awkward 15 year old girl, not sure of her place in the social food chain. She tries to date a fellow classmate Thomas but can’t seem to connect with him emotionally. When she bumps into an androgynous blue haired lesbian on the street one day, Adèle can’t stop thinking about her.

Not knowing the blue hair girl’s name, Adèle wanders into a lesbian bar one night and runs into the object of her mental obsession. This mystery woman is named Emma (Léa Seydoux) whom Adèle  takes to instantly. Not quite sure where this relationship is going, Adèle  and Emma become inspirations for each other in ways neither could ever imaging. Emma is an art student, and Adèle  inspires her art to reach new levels; Adèle  finds a newfound power in her sexuality, albeit she keeps this side hidden from those closest to her.

As Adèle matures and enters into an adult relationship, her foolish childish ways as she tries to break free from, lands her into trouble with Emma which may jeopardize their future together. Will Adèle be able to survive this turbulence in her relationship with Emma or will her actions cause more damage than harm.

Since this film is of a controversial nature, let’s break this down into a few different arguments:

Story. This story is nothing new or original about two people falling in love and navigating the ups and downs of a passionate relationship. Digging a little deeper and playing devil’s advocate on the subject, there is a philosophical nature to this film, which is discussed in long detailed lengths between sex scenes. The ethics behind it of an older woman between a high school girl is a questionable, but it’s just semantics at this point.

Acting. The performances were solid. Both women gave emotionally profound depths to characters that could have been otherwise bland.

Directing. This is where I have an issue. The length of the film is clocking in at 3 hours. There is no way that the amount of eating, sleeping and mundane everyday actions gave any more depth to the story that the extra hour or so gave to this film. I understand that every director has his own vision and what exactly was the vision he was trying to convey, other than making an “artsy” film? There are ways to shoot sex scenes without being as detailed in shots as this film gets, which leads me on to the main gossip surrounding the film.

This film is not for everyone as it does have a high level of mature content; if you can handle it emotionally, more power to you. It does raise a few questions such as, where does the line cross between art and pornography, women's rights and the intimate relations between two people? Do we really need to get so intimate with the characters on film to the point it borders on voyeurism or some things should really be left to the imagination?  You be the judge when “Blue is the Warmest Color” opens at Harkins Camelview 5 on Friday November 1,2013.

The Counselor Movie Review

The Counselor 

Starring: Michael Fassbender, Javier Bardem, Penelope Cruz, Cameron Diaz, Brad Pitt

Directed by: Ridley Scott

Rated: R

Run Time: 117 mins

Genre: Crime/ Drama

Opens October 25th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans! Opening this week is “The Counselor”, directed by Ridley Scott, written by Cormick McCarthy, best known for his novels “All the Pretty Horses” and “No Country for Old Men”. This is McCarthy’s first crack at writing a feature film screenplay which as most writers can attest to is very different from writing a novel.  How does the film fare? Read on to find out.

As a man that appears to have it all; a beautiful fiance named Laura (Penelope Cruz), a high powered career as a criminal lawyer and a long list of clientele, why would the man known as the “Counselor” (Michael Fassbender) voluntarily enter into the high stakes world of drug trafficking? Under the guidance of club owner Reiner (Javier Bardem) and Westray (Brad Pitt), both whom vehemently advised against getting involved in this line of work, help guide the Counselor into the shady underbelly of the drug trafficking world. The key is to trust nobody, especially women like Reiner’s latest girlfriend Malkina (Cameron Diaz) who has a hidden agenda of her own brewing beneath the surface of her otherwise cold exterior.

When the Counselor’s first deal goes awry(like most deals do) from an informant’s beheading, everyone’s life is at risk. Will the Counselor be able to get out of this unscathed with his life, love and money intact or will he meet a worse fate that is common among the drug world?

Don’t be fooled by the impressive billing of director, writer and actors assembled for this rather unimpressive film. To be fair, there is a great deal of dialogue that is profound, memorable and a few unique plot points. What the film is lacking in is a clear direction of a storyline with enough back story to make it understandable to the viewer. The first 30 minutes or so is underdeveloped, focusing more of the relationships between men and women rather than why a lawyer was getting involved with people within a questionable industry. There is not clear protagonist or antagonist but rather a grouping of stories that when cut together make for interesting vignettes, but in the overall plot, make no sense to the purpose of the story. The performances were strong and deliver intensity; the cinematography is gorgeous, but the story is not strong enough to make this a concise, solid film. You be the judge when “The Counselor” opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday October 25, 2013.

Ways to Live Forever Movie Review

Ways to Live Forever  

Starring: Robbie Kay, Alex Etel, Ben Chaplin, Emilia Fox, Greta Scacchi, Ella Purnell, Phyllida Law

Directed by: Gustavo Ron

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 90 mins

Genre: Drama/ Family

Opens October 18th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week is an award winning film based on the novel of the same name by Sally Nicholls. “Ways to Live Forever” stars Ben Chapin, Emilia Fox, Gretta Scacchi, Robbie Kay and Alex Etel.

Like any 12 year old boy, Sam (Robbie Kay) has wishes and dreams that he wants to accomplish in his life. Blessed with a curious mind, Sam is fascinated with information and wants to explore all that life can offer. Only catch is that his life span is at risk for being cut short since he was diagnosed with leukemia and his doctors don’t give him much time to live. His best friend Felix (Alex Etel) he met while in the hospital and together they plan out how to full fill Sam’s “bucket list” before he dies.

From breaking a world record, to doing teenage things, to seeing the stars in a spaceship, those closest to Sam help him record his thoughts on life before his illness can get the best of him. Will Sam be able to accomplish his list or will life get the best of him?

Not since “My Girl” has a film about childhood death been so poignant in the way life is seen through a child’s eyes. Truly a heart-warming film with such  tough subjects, this one is a tearjerker that will also bring a smile to your face. Not only are the child actors fantastic in this film, the story is so touching that I recommend bringing a box of tissues to the theater. The best way to sum this film up is to compare it to “My Girl” meets “The Bucket List”.

In a very cool promotion to see this film, the distributors of this film are teaming up with numerous health organizations, hospitals, and cancer foundations throughout the US (including the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Johns Hopkins, and more) to promote the film, and will be donating a portion of the box office proceeds back in support of their efforts (for the complete list, visit http://waystoliveforevermovie.com/home/index.php/supporters. Be sure to catch “Ways to Live Forever” when it opens in theaters starting Friday October 18,2013.

Carrie Movie Review

Carrie 

Starring: Chloë Grace Moretz, Julianne Moore, Judy Greer, Gabriella Wilde, Portia Doubleday, Ansel Elgort

Directed by: Kimberly Peirce

Rated: R

Run Time: 100 mins

Genre: Horror/ Thriller

Opens October 18th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week is a remake of the 1976 horror classic, also based off a Stephen King novel. Can you guess what is it? If pig’s blood sounds familiar, then you probably know what it is. Director Kimberly Peirce  gives audiences a modern take on the horror classic, but how does it compare to the original?

Leading a sheltered life and using her faith as a shield to reality, Margaret White (Julianne Moore) births a baby girl at home, thinking it was some sort of cancer imposed on her by the devil, and it was a test by God to sacrifice this child. Some sort of rationality kicks in and she saves the baby girl, naming her Carrie.

Fast-forward to her high school years, Carrie (Chloë Grace Moretz) is a shy recluse who is on the receiving end of bullying by a popular girl and her friends. One of the girls, Sue (Gabriella Wilde) takes pity on her after a prank gone awry and tries to make amends with the poor girl. Carrie, during this tumultuous time, discovers her extrasensory ability in the form of telekinesis.

As the bullying and her overbearing mother grow worse, Carrie’s abilities become stronger. Will Carrie be able to control her abilities or will those who have done her wrong pay the ultimate price?

The danger in remakes is the loss of uniqueness and surprise. What makes this film unique is that a female director throws her hat in the ring to re-envision this horror classic and does a decent job. The real problem lies in the casting of the characters. Chloë Grace Moretz does a decent job as the troubled Carrie as does the high school bullies, but Julianne Moore as the overzealous, religious freak mother is a hard sell. Out of all the characters that Moore has played over the years, from a roller skating porn star, Sarah Palin to FBI Agent, this character is just not strong enough to believe that she is this deranged religious mother. What made Sissy Spacek so entrancing in the first film is that she sold the audience on being the lonely, homely Carrie. Moretz is easier to accept as the outcast/ misfit, but easily transforms into a pretty teenager that looks normal. The important note to figure in while watching that this is a “Reimagining” of the classic film so don’t be quick to judge on content comparison.

Other than the casting, the special effects are rather good, giving the telekinesis abilities new depth and thrills. You be the judge when “Carrie” opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday October 18, 2013.

The Fifth Estate Movie Review

The Fifth Estate 

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Daniel Brühl, Anthony Mackie, David Thewlis, Alicia Vikander, Peter Capaldi, Carice van Houten, Dan Stevens, Stanley Tucci, Laura Linney

Directed by: Bill Condon

Rated: R

Run Time: 128 mins

Genre: Drama/ Biography

Opens October 18th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Another film opening this week is one that has been in the headlines over the past few years and based on a book by one of the people portrayed in the film. The man which the film is about, Julian Assange, wasn’t too keen that a film was being made about him and even wrote an email to the actor who plays him, Benedict Cumberbatch about the role expressing his displeasure. Aside from behind the scenes drama, how does the film fare in terms of entertainment?  Read on to find out.

If you ever heard of a little website called Wikileaks mentioned in the news, chances are you have heard of its creator Julian Assange (Benedict Cumberbatch). Picking up the story in 2007 in Berlin, Germany, Assange teamed  up with a young tech geek/hacker type, named Daniel Berg (Daniel Brühl) to take Wikileaks to a new level. Assange has a past of hacking crimes yet has turned humanitarian by using his hacking past to expose those who cause crimes against humanity. Wikileaks is a platform where whistleblowers can, leak data, sources, exposing documents, governments and corporate crimes under a veil of anonymity.

In theory, this works in favor of Assange, his volunteers and their sources but when a “leak” so huge against the American government is exposed, how far will Assange go to defend his actions when he puts so many lives at risk all in the name of justice?

Not since the Pentagon Papers were released, has there been such a groundbreaking journalistic event for the media to partake in. Where the argument lies, is 1.) Blogging a form of journalism? And 2). With this amount of potential damaging information, what should be released and what gets redacted?    The problem with this film isn’t that it is a compelling story or that the protagonist/antagonist dynamic is lacking, but the artistic vision of the story seems a little lackluster. Several scenes of the film try to explain the complexities of the mindset of Assange and Berg with intercuts of “visualizations” of the inner workings of Wikileaks which seem out of place. The amount of information flying back and forth is fascinating, and if they focused more on the subjects of Assanges “leaks” would have made for a more exciting story. It was as if Director Bill Condon was trying too hard to get the “Twilight” crowd to have a “Matrix” dreamscape experience to explain the complicated character that is Julian Assange. You be the judge when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday October 18, 2013.

Movie Review for We Are What We Are

We Are What We Are  

Starring: Bill Sage, Ambyr Childers, Julia Garner, Wyatt Russell, Jack Gore, Kelly McGillis

Directed by: Jim Mickle

Rated: R

Run Time: 105 mins

Genre: Horror/ Thriller/ Drama

Opens October 18th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Horror Film Fans! You know it’s that time of year when the horror films are being released in full force and this week is a film that will give the updated version of a horror classic a run for its money. Opening this week as a Harkins Camelview exclusive is the horror film “We Are What We Are” starring  Bill Sage, Julia Garner and Kelly McGillis. This horror film touches on a subject that is not as oversaturated in the horror market, cannibalism. So how does it fare? Read on to find out.

When family matriarch of the Parker clan, Emma Parker (Kassie DePaiva) dies at the young age of 47 of what seems to be an early onset of Parkinson's Disease, the rest of the family is shaken to its core. Eldest daughter Rose (Julia Garner) is expected by her father Frank (Bill Sage) to step in her mother’s role and to fulfill her duties in taking care of the family and learn of the ways of their heritage, which are practicing Cannibalism.

Middle daughter Iris (Ambyr Childers) and Rose have grown weary of their family’s practices.  She has been searching for a way to break free now that their mother is gone.  Frank has grown more oppressive with each passing day in an effort to deal with his own health issues and grief over losing his wife.

As private the Parker clan have been, there has been a number of disappearances in the area that remain unsolved. One of those family member of the disappeared is the town doctor, Doc Barrow (Michael Parks) who treated Emma Parker while she gave birth to her third child Rory (Jack Gore) and exhumed her body before being laid to rest. Doc Barrow knew there was something odd about Emma’s condition, and with some keen observations, decides to dig a little further into the health history of the rest of the Parker family. Will Doc Barrow be able to help the Parker children before it’s too late or will he become their latest victim for dinner? Although this is not necessarily a scary film, it is more disgusting than frightening to make the viewer squeamish, the content of the film is delivered in such a way that it makes it tolerable to view. One may expect with a director such as Jim Mickle (Stake Land, Mulberry Street) helming this film that a particular level of expectation of horrific thrills will be met. Which if you’re going in with little or no expectations, this film is suitable for getting in the Halloween mood. The young actresses playing the daughters are fantastic as is Bill Sage as the deranged, over zealous head cannibal.  You be the judge when “We Are What We Are” opens at Harkins Camelview starting Friday October 18,2013.

Movie Review for A.C.O.D

A.C.O.D.  

Starring: Adam Scott, Richard Jenkins, Catherine O'Hara, Amy Poehler, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Clark Duke, Ken Howard, Jessica Alba, Jane Lynch

Directed by: Stuart Zicherman

Rated: R

Run Time: 88 mins

Genre: Comedy

Opens October 18th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Another film opening this week features a large cast of comedic characters in a story loosely based on the experience of Director Stu Zicherman’s life. “A.C.O.D.” (Adults Children of Divorce) stars Adam Scott, Jane Lynch, Catherine O’Hara and Richard Jenkins.

When the divorce rate is hovering somewhere around fifty percent, you have a whole generation growing up in a unusual living situation. Some divorces end well, but for Carter (Adam Scott) his parents decided to drop the d-bomb on him on his 9th birthday and have hated each other ever since.

Now that Carter is an adult, he has managed to keep the peace between his parents until his younger brother Trey (Clark Duke) announces his engagement. Now Carter is put in the middle of his feuding parents about how to plan this wedding.

As Carter  fights for his sanity, he seeks out the therapist that helped him as a child, Dr. Dr. Judith (Jane Lynch).  Carter discovers that she’s not really a psychiatrist but a state funded researcher that wrote a book, “Children of Divorce” that he was a subject of.  As Carter talks to Dr. Judith, filling her in on the last decade or two on his development, she gets the brilliant idea to do a follow up book on the children in the first book to see how they turned out as adults. Carter wants to clear his pseudo name from the book, so he sees this as an opportunity to show everyone that he is a functioning adult.

As chief family peacemaker, Carter gets his mother, Melissa (Catherine O’Hara), and his father Hugh (Richard Jenkins) both to the same restaurant, forcing them to work out their issues about their son’s upcoming nuptials. As good of intentions Carter had, this ends up being a disaster, for the very reasons his parents broke up have brought them together putting everyone’s present and future relationships at risk. Can Carter get through these new found revelations or as an Adult Child of Divorce will his adulthood and romantic relationships follow the same path as his parent’s doomed relationships?

With such a strong assembly of comedic actors, interesting subject material and back story one would expect non stop hilarity to ensue. The comedic elements are there, but this film lacks a certain snark that the actors in the cast are known for. The performances feel a little soft and the build up to the resolution is not as fulfilling as the viewer may expect. If you’re a child of divorce, you may resonate with some of the themes in this film. You be the judge when “A.C.O.D.” opens in theaters starting Friday October 18, 2013

Captain Phillips Movie Review

Captain Phillips  

Starring: Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Barkhad Abdirahman, Faysal Ahmed, Mahat M. Ali, Michael Chrenus, Catherine Keener, Yul Vazquez, Max Martini

Directed by: Paul Greengrass

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 134 mins

Genre: Biography/ Crime/ Drama

Opens October 11th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Another film opening this week is not only based on a book, but was headline making news a few years ago. Based on the 2009 account of the kidnapping and hijacking of the Maersk Alabama ship and it’s captain, Captain Richard Phillips, held captive by a group of rag-tag Somali pirates. There has been early chatter that Tom Hanks may be in the running for another piece of hardware to add to his award pile, so how does he do?

Based on the events of the spring of 2009, Captain Richard Phillips (Tom Hanks) was preparing for any other ship route that he has run in the past. There had been several alerts from government agencies warning about the pirate activity of the coast of Somalia, which Capt. Phillips took seriously. He and his crew took the proper procedures and when a group of 4 Somali pirates invades their ship, no one could imagine how far up the chain this event would escalate to. When the US Military gets involved, things get very real, very quick. Will the pirates succeed in collecting $10 million dollars for ransom or will they have a most unfortunate end?

What stands out in this film is hands-down the performances of Tom Hanks and one of the Somali pirates, played by Faysal Ahmed. The last 30 minutes play out so intense and so well done that as a viewer, can sit back identify with the emotions being portrayed by these actors. The first half of the film plays out a little slow but builds momentum that, by the end scenes, the payoff of the final moments makes the whole film worth the watch. In this reviewer’s opinion, this is Tom Hanks's best performance since “Castaway”, in the way he performs alone towards the end. The performance is subtle, relatable and powerful. Be sure to check out “Captain Phillips” when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday October 11, 2013.

Movie Review for The Summit

The Summit  

Directed by: Nick Ryan

Rated: R

Run Time: 95 mins

Genre: Documentary

Opens October 11th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week as a Harkins Camelview exclusive is an award winning documentary that shines at the Boulder International Film Festival, British Film Institute Awards and this year’s Sundance Film Festival.  “The Summit” chronicles the story of an 2008 expedition to the famed K2, one of Earth’s most deadliest mountains and 2nd tallest, where 11 climbers perished in a most unfortunate way.

Twenty-four climbers from 15 expeditions set out in 2008 from the summit camp to conquer the K2, a climber’s ultimate challenge. The mountain is roughly 28,251 feet tall, nestled on the border between China and Pakistan. Statistics figure that 1 out of 4 climbers will die trying to conquer K2. During this expedition a piece of ice fell, cutting the fixed ropes which resulted in the deaths of 11 climbers.

Told through interviews, audio footage and reenactments that feel too realistic, this documentary features gorgeous cinematography to capture the essence of majesty, grandeur and danger of this mystical landscape. The interviews of the climbers that survive are remarkable, inspiring and incredible that these individuals would embark on such a life threatening adventure.  This is a film that should be experienced on the big screen so be sure to catch “The Summit” when it opens at Harkins Camelview starting Friday October 11,2013.

Movie Review for Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet  

Starring: Hailee Steinfeld, Douglas Booth, Ed Westwick, Christian Cooke, Damian Lewis, Laura Morante, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Stellan Skarsgård, Tom Wisdom, Paul Giamatti, Lesley Manville

Directed by: Carlo Carlei

Rated: PG-13

Run Time:118 mins

Genre: Drama/ Romance

Opens October 11th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

It’s story so well known, replicated, redone and remade that when a new version comes out there is a bit of wonder in how the storyteller, or in this case, filmmaker will make the timeless Shakespeare classic fresh and new. Director Carlo Carlei takes on the arduous task, so how does he do?

Chances are unless you you slept through high school english or drama class, you already know the story of” Romeo and Juliet”. In this film, Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit) plays one half of the star-crossed lovers as Juliet and Douglas Booth (LOL) as Romeo, which if going by the actual age of the characters in the story, are rather close. Rounding out the cast is Paul Giamatti as the Priest, Ed Westwick as Tybalt, Christian Cook as Mercutio.

For those not familiar with the story, basically there are two families feuding with each other; the Montagues and the Capulets. Romeo is a Montague and Juliet is a Capulet. When Romeo meets Juliet, he falls madly in love with her and she with him. At first, neither knows their family hates the other, so this love is big-time forbidden. In an attempt to end the feud, the Priest agrees to marry these two crazy kids, but insanity ensues, there is a massive communication failure and lots of people die.

What makes this film so intriguing to watch is that in this film version compared to past renditions, does justice to Shakespeare; keeping it in the original context and tone, but visually exquisite in the details. From the costumes, the casting, the sets/locations, to the originality in the script, this film is Shakespeare done right. If you’re a fan of Shakespeare this is a must-see film, as breathes new life into the timeless tale of star-crossed lovers.  Be sure to catch “Romeo and Juliet” when it opens in theaters starting Friday October 11, 2013.

Machete Kills Movie Review

Machete Kills  

Starring: Danny Trejo, Demian Bichir, Michelle Rodriguez, Amber Heard, Jessica Alba, Lady Gaga, Carlos Estevez, Mel Gibson, Sofia Vergara, Alexa Vega, Antonio Banderas, Cuba Gooding Jr., Walton Goggins, Vanessa Hudgens

Directed by: Robert Rodriguez

Rated: R

Run Time:

Genre: Action/ Crime

Opens October 11th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week is the sequel to the 2010 hit “Machete”, “Machete Kills”, starring Danny Trejo as the revenge driven vigilante. How does it stack up to the first film? Read on to find out.

When the film opens, we find Machete (Danny Trejo) and Agent Sartana (Jessica Alba) intercept a shady weapons deal that was about to go down between a rogue group of U.S. Military soldiers and a Mexican Cartel gang. When the deal gets botched a third group, a  more sinister rogue group of contract killers working for a large corporation end up getting away with the weapons, a nuclear missile, leaving Agent Sartana dead.  Machete is arrested for the crime and is kept in a shady border town jail, awaiting execution.

Machete’s luck changes when the US President, (Carlos Estevez, a.k.a. Charlie Sheen) pardons the misfortunate vigilante, makes him a US citizen and then asks him to save the world. The targeted villain is cartel leader turned revolutionary, Marcos Mendez (Demian Bichic); a man so dangerous he makes Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde look like amateurs. His handler is an agent stationed in San Antonio and will help him in his mission to apprehend Mendez.

Upon his arrival in San Antonio, his handler, Miss San Antonio (Amber Heard) informs him that he will have find a girl in a brothel to be able to get to Mendez. Soon Machete will have to duke it out with a contract killer known as the Chameleon (Walt Goggins/Cuba Gooding Jr/ Lady Gaga/Antonio Banderas), a bordello madam with a vendetta against men, Desdemona (Sofia Vergara) and a corporate giant named Voz (Mel Gibson) to avenge Agent Sartana’s death and save the world. Can he do it or will this be too big of a challenge for the legendary Machete?

The first five minutes of the film set the tone for the amount of absurdity featured in this latest installment of the Machete saga. Using a cinematic blender to include as much gore, violence, ridiculousness, gratuitous sex with cheeky humor, Rodriguez kicks his grindhouse filmmaking style to up the ante in this film, which the attached trailer sets up the next film quite nicely. This film caters to those who seek their cinematic thrills to the B-movie, the grindhouse flicks and cult films. If you’re a fan of this type of films, you’re in for an entertaining 107 minutes of entertaining nonsense. “Machete Kills” opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday October 11, 2013.

Parkland Movie Review

Parkland   

Starring: Marcia Gay Harden, Zac Efron, Paul Giamatti, Mallory Moye, Ron Livingston, Billy Bob Thornton, Mark Duplass, Gil Bellows, David Harbour, Bitsie Tulloch, Sean McGraw, Brett Stimely, Colin Hanks

Directed by: Peter Landesman

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 93 mins

Genre: Drama

Opens October 4th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans! This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy assassination. “Parkland” features an all-star cast led by Marcia Gay Harden, Paul Giamatti and Zac Efron.  This film focuses on the people that were behind the scenes in trying to save President Kennedy’s life and those trying to bring his killer to justice. Did the filmmakers give these people the respect they deserve or is this film just another one to blend in with the annals of history?

Recounting the events of November 22,193 and the three days following, “Parkland” gives a voice to the people that worked feverously behind the scenes trying to make sense of the assassination of President Kennedy. Parkland Hospital was the focal point of the nation for two days as it catered to trying to save President Kennedy and his accused assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. The same team that attempted to save President Kennedy was comprised of Dr. Charles “Jim” Carrico (Zac Efron), Nurse Doris Nelson (Marcia Gay Hardin) and Dr. Malcolm Perry (Colin Hanks). Much to their dismay they had to turn around and help the accused mere hours later.

Also, featuring the investigation into the event, this film takes an inside look at the man who shot the famous footage of the shooting, Abraham Zapruder (Paul Giamatti); the FBI Agents that were profiling Oswald, Agent James Hosty (Ron Livingston) and Agent Gordon Shanklin (David Harbour) and the Secret Service Agents detailed to the late president, Kenneth O”Donnell (Mark Duplass) and Rufus Youngblood (Nico Evers-Swindell).

For those that remember, experienced this tragic event or are a history buff, you may be intrigued by the stories presented in this film. It’s one thing to know the tragic main details but to hear and learn of the names and faces of the ones closely affected by this event makes it an emotional journey for the viewer. The cast assembled in this film is fantastic; each one deeply moving in their respective roles. Even the executive producers assembled is quite impressive - Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Gary Goetzman, Guy East, and Brian Falk to name a few. It shows on screen that a lot of care and compassion went into the making of this film. Be sure to check out “Parkland” opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday October 4, 2013.

Runner Runner Movie Review

Runner Runner 

Starring: Ben Affleck, Justin Timberlake, Gemma Arterton, Anthony Mackie, Michael Esper, Oliver Cooper, John Heard

Directed by: Brad Furman

Rated: R

Run Time: 91 mins

Genre: Crime/ Drama/ Thriller

Opens October 4th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Another film opening this week stars an Academy Award Winner, an Emmy Winner and BAFTA Nominee. With all that talent, one might assume that this thriller about online gambling would raise the stakes. How did they do? Read on to find out.

When Princeton grad student Richie Furst (Justin Timberlake) gets reprimanded for promoting online gaming on campus, he’s on the line for paying his tuition by the following week. He owes about $60,000.00, So to raise that money he tries his hand at online poker where he almost wins but finds out that one of the players was cheating. He decides to bring this matter to the attention of the website’s owner Ivan Block (Ben Affleck). The only catch is he has to travel down to Costa Rica to garner an audience with the elusive gambling mastermind.

Block is impressed by Richie and the way he conducted his business with him, resulting in an offer of employment with a starting salary of 6 figures. Not bad, right?

A few months into his employment, Richie is approached by FBI Agent Shavers (Anthony Mackie); trying to force him into cooperating his investigation into Ivan Block and his gambling business. Richie panics, informs Ivan who blows this off as this is of little importance. Richie believes Ivan and continues doing business per usual.

As the deals become more questionable, Richie questions his own safety and role within Ivan’s organization. Will he be able to exit quietly or fall like a house of cards if the feds catch up with Ivan?

The past few films that Justin Timberlake (In Time, Trouble with the Curve) have starred in that showed his dramatic side has not been his best work. He really excels in the realm of comedy and should stay there. Ben Affleck, over the past few years has turned his career around with venturing into directing and acting, but this role albeit, not his typical role, suited his acting skills from the Changing Lanes years. He’s gotten past crying in every role which is positive, but this film could have been much stronger if Timberlake’s role was recast. Gemma Arterton and Anthony Mackie were fine choices for their respective roles, but the quality of the film with so much talent didn’t quite hit the jackpot. Although this film is entertaining, I’m not quite sure if it was the script or the direction of the film, but it lacks a certain spark to make it memorable. You be the judge when “Runner Runner” opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday October 4, 2013.

Gravity Movie Review

Gravity 

Starring: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney

Directed by: Alfonso Cuarón

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 90 mins

Genre: Action/Drama

Opens October 4th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week is a film that has been pleasing critics across the country since it’s unveiling at the Venice Film Festival. “Gravity” stars Sandra Bullock, George Clooney and Ed Harris, directed by Alfonso Cuarón.  Early buzz is predicting that Bullock may be a contender for next year’s Oscars race, but how does the film stack up?

About 300 miles above the surface of the Earth orbits the Hubble Telescope. Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and Astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) end up being the sole survivors when shrapnel from a Russian satellite strikes the telescope. The result of the damage results in  Dr. Stone flung off into open space; spinning, panicking and losing oxygen fast, her only anchor is Kowalski talking her back to her senses.

Once she gets her bearings, Dr. Stone is able to communicate with Kowalski so he can retrieve her and scoot on over to the international space station before the space trash circles around the Earth. They only have about 90 minutes. If they don’t make it to the Space station before the next round of shrapnel hits, there will be no survivors from this latest space mission. Will they be able to make to the station or perish in a unique way?

So many adjectives can be used to describe this film. Stunning. Intense. Breathtaking. Awe-inspiring; most of all, amazing. What doesn’t look like much from the trailers released, this film is a 90 minute rollercoaster ride that will keep the viewer on the edge of their seat until the very end. Sandra Bullocks performance is exceptionable, in as the mental and emotional depths the role requires would take a toll on anyone. The chemistry and playful banter that Clooney and Bullock have on this film is fun to watch in the lighter moments and keeps the viewer rooting for them as they fight for their lives.  Director Alfonso Cuarón has outdone himself as this is an unprecedented piece of work to have under his belt. Be sure to catch “Gravity” when it opens in theaters starting Friday October 4, 2013.

Rush Movie Review

Rush 

Starring: Chris Hemsworth,  Daniel Brühl, Olivia Wilde,

Directed by: Ron Howard

Rated: R

Run Time: 123 mins

Genre: Action/ Drama/ Biography/Sports

Opens September 27th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week is the latest film this year to feature racing (Turbo, Planes) but is live action instead of animated. Based on the true story of Formula 1 Racers Niki Lauda and James Hunt in the 1970’s, Director Ron Howard presents a keen insight into the world of racing 40 years ago. Will race fans flock to see this biopic or will it crash and burn at the box office?

Starting in their days as Formula 3 drivers in 1970, James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) already had a reputation for being a ladies man that lived life on the wild side. When James first encountered Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl) on a British Formula 3 race track, a fierce rivalry was born, spanning the course of 6 years when each man worked his way (or paid for his way) into Formula 1 racing to conquer the industry.

Through each man’s personal trials and tribulations, the rivalry took on new meaning for each man as the years went by. When they finally meet head to head in 1976, in Japan, for the World Championship title, will the personal conflicts get in the way or is the rivalry so significant that each man is willing to die to prove he is the better driver?

What is most surprising about “Rush” is that although it is directed by Ron Howard, it doesn’t take on the typical stylistic characteristics of his trademark films. The film looks as if it was shot on film during the 1970’s, giving it an air of  authenticity for the viewer’s experience.  Each actor, especially Brühl, keeps the audience rooting for each driver even though you may be partial to one over the other. Brühl's character of Lauda is so unfriendly and cold that he's likable; you root for him along the way. Hemsworth delivers another epic performance, this time as a formula race driver god that is deeply flawed and troubled. Even if you’re not a race fan, the acting performances and tension between the two main actors, Hemsworth and Brühl, really capture the essence of what great sports rivalry is comprised of, mutual respect and disdain for the other competitor. Be sure to catch “Rush when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday September 27,2013.

Movie Review for Don Jon

Don Jon 

Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Scarlett Johansson, Julianne Moore, Tony Danza, Glenne Headly, Brie Larson, Rob Brown, Jeremy Luke

Directed by: Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Rated: R

Run Time: 90 mins

Genre: Comedy/ Drama

Opens September 27th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  Opening this week is a film that has been gathering quite a bit of buzz thanks to Sundance, which its first cut was given an NC-17 rating. Joseph Gordon-Levitt pulls triple duty in his directorial debut, taking on lead actor, writer AND Director. How does he fare?  Read on to find out.

Good naturedly dubbed “Don Jon” by his friends, Jon (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is a man all about high standards. From the way he takes care of his body, to the car he drives to the women he dates, Jon has a particular way of living life, on his terms, with no apologies. Although he is not lacking in getting women to date him, Jon is unfulfilled when it comes to matters of the bedroom. No one can get him more satisfied than himself, in front of his computer, watching pornography. When he starts dating Barbara (Scarlett Johansson) he tries to be a better man; the only qualm he has is that he can’t quit the porn.  When his relationship with Barbara hangs in the balance, will Jon be able to grow up and quit the porn of continue his life as is?

Taking the traditional romantic comedy and flipping it on its head, Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s freshmen entry into the directorial world is nothing but ingenious. Although the film does have quite a bit of pornographic references and gratuitous sex scenes, it's a refreshing look at what can be a stale genre. Not only does Gordon-Levitt pull off some impressive direction, his performance as the narcissistic, sex obsessed Jon. Jon is reminiscent of a less obtrusive character from “The Jersey Shore”; this version is the one you actually root for rather than gawk in mock-horror.  The palpable chemistry between the rest of the cast members is entertaining and enjoyable. Just a word to the wise, this is not a film that is suitable for small children, so it’s best to leave the little ones at home for this one. Be sure to catch “Don Jon” when it opens in theaters starting Friday September 27, 2013.

The Short Game Movie Review

The  Short Game  

Starring: Allan Kournikova, Zamokuhle Nxasana, Alexa Pano, Kuang Yang, Jed Dy,

Augustin Valery, Sky Sudberry, Amari Avery

Directed by: Josh Green Baum

Rated: PG

Run Time:90 mins

Genre: Documentary/ Sport

Opens September 20th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans! Another documentary opening this week focuses on the world of Golf in the children’s arena. “The Short Game” features some of the best 7 year golfers in the world but is it worth the watch?

Golf in recent years has grown in popularity thanks to such players as Tiger Woods, who was a golf prodigy himself. Adult players strive to win that green player’s jacket at Augusta but for the children that play golf, every year the best players in the world gather in North Carolina at Pinehurst Golf Course to determine the U.S. Kids World Champion of Golf. Featuring Allan Kournikova from Florida, Zamokuhle Nxasana from South Africa, Alexa Pano from Florida, Kuang Yang from China, Jed Dy from the Philippines, Augustin Valery from France, Sky Sudberry from Texas and Amari Avery from California, the amazing quality each of these kids share is a determination to win and drive to be the best they can be.  As their parents as their caddy, each child is in a fierce competition to be the world champion, but will emotions or lack of focus get the best of them?

What was equally impressive is how quickly each child could switch to being a mini adult on the golf course to being a regular 7 or 8 year old kid the moment they were given free time. This film is truly entertaining and rather inspiring in capturing the spirit of good sportsmanship and positive life skills that should not be missed. Be sure to catch “The Short Game” when it opens in theaters starting Friday September 20,2013.